(a) whether exodus of defence scientists from the country is increasing;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor;
(c) whether a number of defence projects have been delayed due to the high attrition rate in the sector; and
(d) if so, the steps being taken by the Government to check exodus of defence scientists?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI PRANAB MUKHERJEE)
(a) & (b): Due to increased opportunities available in private sector and abroad, some scientists in Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) leave the job. However, the numbers of such scientists is not significantly high.
(c) There has been no substantial impact of such attrition on completion of DRDO projects. The deficiencies are made up by normal recruitments.
(d) After the Fifth Pay Commission, some incentives were given to the scientists which include two additional increments and Professional Update Allowance. The matters of Pay Scales and other allowances/incentives will be considered by the Sixth Pay Commission.